Through the Eyes of a 6th Grader

I recently received a letter from a 6th grader in Mr. Matt Hanne’s class at Veterans Memorial Middle School. In the letter she explained about the school’s positive behavior reinforcement program, and that they were looking for donations. Now, a friend and I have been working on a list entitled “Be Positive for Blue Island”, and I saw an opportunity here. So I sent a donation, along with a request of Mr. Hanne, that he have his class write down what they like about Blue Island.
Much to my surprise, a short time later I received 97 short essays from the 6th grade class of VMMS! I was thrilled, I was speechless, I had to sit down, I had to call my friend! What a litany of great things! I started reading through them and could hardly believe the positive attitude that these kids have. To quote a member of the 6th grade class, “Trouble might come our way but were still okay!”
In case you’re wondering what’s so great about Blue Island, let me recap the top five reasons why the students love it.
1. My friends and family live here. Isn’t that true for most of us?
2. The parks. I have to say that lately the Blue Island Park District has become a real gem, and I’m glad that the kids recognize it.
3. The pool at Memorial Park. Who doesn’t enjoy a swim on a hot day? Not to mention the Fishing Derby this year.
4. The schools. I know for a fact that the schools are focused on our kids, both educationally and socially.
5. The city is very walkable. Several students mentioned the fact that they can walk almost anywhere they want to go, and so can the rest of us.
One thing that was mentioned several times was that the people are nice and friendly, and that the neighborhoods were calm and peaceful. Other things that were mentioned are the library, sports of all kinds, sledding in the winter, the restaurants, the 4th of July Parade, the Boat Parade, Rock Around the Clock, and the fact that we are so close to Chicago.
Put all the essays together and it reads like a travel brochure.

“Come to Blue Island, where the people are friendly and care about you,
the food is good, and there’s lots to do”

I know that the city faces many challenges ahead, but we have a lot to work with, including our children. Isn’t it comforting to see our world through the eyes of a 6th grader, if only for a little while? Thank you, Mr. Hanne and the 6th grade class of VMMS.

Candace Carr
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